kids encyclopedia robot

Threadleaf arrowhead facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Threadleaf arrowhead
Scientific classification
Genus:
Sagittaria
Species:
filiformis
Synonyms
  • Sagittaria natans Michx.
  • Sagittaria natans var. gracillima S.Watson
  • Sagittaria stagnorum Small
  • Sagittaria storiflexum B.Bagmor.
  • Sagittaria subulata var. gracillima (S.Watson) J.G.Sm.
  • Sagittaria subulata var. natans J.G.Sm.

The threadleaf arrowhead, known scientifically as Sagittaria filiformis, is a fascinating plant that lives in water. It's found naturally in the eastern parts of the United States. This plant gets its common name from its unique, thin leaves that look like threads. It's an important part of the watery environments where it grows.

Discovering the Threadleaf Arrowhead

The threadleaf arrowhead is a type of aquatic plant, which means it lives in water. It's also a perennial plant, so it lives for more than two years. This plant can grow quite tall, sometimes reaching up to 170 centimeters (about 5.5 feet) in height.

Where Does It Live?

You can find the threadleaf arrowhead in many places across the eastern United States. Its range stretches from Maine in the far north, all the way down to Florida and Alabama in the south.

The type of water it lives in can change depending on the region. In the northern parts of its home, it often grows in streams where the water is moving. But in the southern areas, it prefers calmer waters. You might see it in places like marshes and swamps, where the water is more still.

What Does It Look Like?

The threadleaf arrowhead has interesting leaves that come in different shapes. Some of its leaves are very thin and long, like threads. These thread-like leaves stay completely underwater.

Other leaves are wider and float on the surface of the water. These floating leaves can be narrowly oval-shaped or shaped like a spearhead. This mix of leaf types helps the plant adapt to its watery home.

kids search engine
Threadleaf arrowhead Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.